Vital Signs, Height, and Weight 353 29. Return the thermometer to a charging location per facility policy. Follow-Up 30. Make sure the resident is comfortable and place the call light and personal items within reach. 31. Conduct a safety check before leaving the room. The room should be clean and free from clutter or spills. 32. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before leaving the room. Reporting and Documentation 33. Report any specific observations, complications, or unusual responses to the licensed nursing staff. Procedure Using an Axillary Thermometer— Digital Rationale While axillary temperature is not as accurate as other temperatures, the axilla (armpit) can often be more easily reached than other locations. Always follow the thermometer manufacturer’s instructions and facility policy. Preparation 1. Ask the licensed nursing staff how this procedure fits into the plan of care, if there are doctor’s orders for the procedure, if there are any special instructions or precautions, and if the resident can be moved into the positions required for this procedure. 2. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before entering the room. 3. Knock before entering the room. 4. Introduce yourself using your full name and title. Explain that you work with the licensed nursing staff and will be providing care. 5. Greet the resident and ask the resident to state his full name, if able. Then check the resident’s identification bracelet. 6. Use Mr., Mrs., or Ms. and the last name when conversing. 7. Explain the procedure in simple terms, even if the resident is not able to communicate or is disoriented. Ask permission to perform the procedure. 8. Bring the necessary equipment into the room. Place the following items in an easy-to-reach place: • a digital thermometer • the appropriate probe attachment (the blue probe for an axillary temperature) • disposable probe covers • disposable gloves, if appropriate • a towel • pen and pad, form, or digital device for documenting temperature The Procedure 9. Provide privacy by closing the curtains, using a screen, or closing the door to the room. 10. If the resident is in bed, lock the bed wheels and then raise the bed to hip level. 11. Maintain safety during the procedure. If the resident is in a bed with side rails, raise and lock the rails on the opposite side of the bed from where you will be working. Lower the rail on the side you are working. Best Practice: Disposable gloves are worn only if required for infection prevention and control. 12. Help the resident remove any clothing to expose his upper arm area. 13. Dry the axilla with the towel. 14. Place a disposable probe cover over the blue probe. Start the thermometer and wait until it shows it is ready. 15. Place the covered probe in the center of the axilla. 16. Place the resident’s arm across his chest while holding the probe in place (Figure 16.7). Figure 16.7 (continued) Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.